Final report card for the Titans

Yes, running back Chris Johnson eclipsed the 1,000-yard mark, but it was painful to watch at times. Johnson wasn’t as explosive, but the offensive line also shares a good chunk of the blame because of their inconsistencies.

Passing offense: B.

QB Matt Hasselbeck made good decisions and was mostly accurate. Receivers Nate Washington, Damian Williams and Lavelle Hawkins also stepped up, and tight end Jared Cook was a big factor late.

Rushing defense: C-

The Titans made stopping the run a priority heading into the season, but six teams ran for over 150 yards against them, and two topped 200. While rookie DT Jurrell Casey was a run-stopper, others underachieved.

Passing defense: B

The Titans finished 14th in the NFL in passing defense, and for the most part kept teams in check. The cornerback play was consistently good, from Jason McCourty to Cortland Finnegan to Alterraun Verner.

Special teams: A-.

Kicker Rob Bironas and punter Brett Kern were consistently good. The Titans were above average in the return game, and in the top 10 on coverage teams. Penalties pull this grade down a tad.

Coaching: B

In a year when most figured they’d be a .500 team at best, the Titans stayed alive to Week 17 en route to a 9-7 finish. Coach Mike Munchak and his staff did a solid job in all three phases in Year One.